Watch Better Things
- TV-MA
- 2016
- 5 Seasons
-
7.9 (16,929)
Better Things is a critically acclaimed comedy-drama television series that aired on FX from 2016 to 2022. Created by Pamela Adlon and Louis C.K., the show follows the daily life of Sam Fox (played by Adlon), a single mother of three daughters living in Los Angeles. The show explores the challenges, joys, and struggles of raising a family in the modern world and delves into themes such as relationships, aging, career, self-discovery, and much more. Sam Fox is a working actress who is struggling to balance her professional life with the demands of motherhood. She has three daughters: the rebellious teenager Max (Mikey Madison), the neurotic middle child Frankie (Hannah Alligood), and the innocent youngest child Duke (Olivia Edward). Sam's mother, Phil (Celia Imrie), who suffers from multiple ailments, also lives with her. Throughout the series, Sam faces various challenges that include dealing with her daughters' emotional and psychological issues, navigating the complicated world of Hollywood, coping with aging and loneliness, and negotiating her relationships with her ex-husband and other men in her life. The show is famous for its realistic portrayal of modern family life, its witty humor, and its poignant moments of emotional resonance. Better Things is unique in its portrayal of female characters, as it centers on the experiences and perspectives of women from multiple generations. The show depicts the complexity of mother-daughter relationships, the challenges of juggling work and family, and the struggle for self-identity and personal growth. The three daughters are distinct personalities, each with their own perspectives and struggles, and their relationship with Sam evolves throughout the series. Apart from the excellent writing and acting, the show is also visually stunning, with creative cinematography, use of music, and a vibrant color palette, that adds layers of nuance to the storytelling. Better Things has also been praised for its diverse and inclusive casting, with characters from various racial and ethnic backgrounds represented in a naturalistic way. Over its six-season run, Better Things has received numerous accolades, including three Primetime Emmy nominations, a Peabody Award, and a Critics' Choice Television Award. The show has been praised for its humor, authenticity, and the depth of its characters. It is a heartfelt and honest portrayal of family life that will resonate with viewers of all ages. In conclusion, Better Things is a must-watch television series that offers a fresh and insightful take on modern family life. Pamela Adlon's brilliant performance as Sam Fox anchors the show, and the supporting cast, including Mikey Madison and Hannah Alligood, adds depth and nuance to the ensemble. The writing and direction are top-notch, and the show manages to balance humor and pathos in a realistic and engaging way. Better Things is a rare gem of a show that celebrates the complexities and joys of being a woman, a mother, and a human in the twenty-first century.